African Union and AFRIMA Strengthen Ties with Formal Partnership Agreement

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, the African Union (AU) and the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) solidified their long-standing partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that reinforces their shared commitment to advancing Africa’s creative and cultural industries, particularly in music.

Since AFRIMA’s inaugural awards ceremony in 2014, the partnership has played a key role in elevating African musical talent onto the global stage. Together, the AU and AFRIMA have driven impactful initiatives, including the implementation of the Revised AU Plan of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries, the promotion of the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the organization of the 2020 "Stronger Together" online concert in support of the COVID-19 Response Fund. 

(L-R) Ms. Angela Martins, Ag. Director, Directorate of Social Development, Culture and Sport, African Union Commission, Mike Dada, President and Executive Producer of All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), H.E. Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, African Union Commission and Ms. Mtudenre Gondwe, AU Legal Officer, during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding to formalize AU’s long-standing partnership in promoting Africa's creative and cultural industries at the African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Wednesday 29th January 2025

The MoU further cements their joint efforts in championing African culture and aligning with key AU objectives under Agenda 2063.

H.E. Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, underscored that, with the signing of this MoU, the AUC and AFRIMA reaffirm their dedication to nurturing African musical talent, expanding opportunities for all artists, and leveraging music as a tool for integration, social cohesion and economic transformation. "This agreement signifies a new chapter in our collaboration, ensuring that African music continues to flourish, uplift communities, and contribute to the well-being of artists and the continent's development agenda." Amb. Cessouma stated.

Mike Dada, President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, expressed his enthusiasm for the renewed collaboration, extending appreciation to current and former AU Commissioners for their visionary leadership, overwhelming support and dedication to the course of Africa’s creative industry. "This partnership represents a significant milestone and a great step forward in our shared mission to elevate African music and culture on the global stage. Looking forward to the continued growth of this partnership for the benefit of our continent.’’ Mr. Dada indicated.